Description

The Buick D45, introduced in 1916, was a mid-range model in Buick’s expanding lineup during a transformative era for the American automobile industry. It reflected the brand’s commitment to reliable engineering, refined styling, and increasing levels of comfort aimed at a growing middle-class market.

Powered by a robust 3.6-litre inline four-cylinder engine, the D45 produced approximately 40 horsepower—offering smooth and dependable performance for touring and everyday driving. The engine was paired with a three-speed manual gearbox and rear-wheel drive, a standard configuration of the time that emphasized mechanical simplicity and durability.

The D45 was most commonly offered in a five-passenger touring car body style, with an open top and side curtains that could be deployed in bad weather. Its long, upright profile was typical of the era, featuring a flat windshield, prominent fenders, and a tall radiator grille with brass or nickel trim, depending on the production period. Running boards and a rear-mounted spare tire completed the car’s functional and stylish exterior.

Inside, the D45 offered a relatively spacious cabin for the time, with leather upholstery, a wooden steering wheel, and a simple dashboard layout. The controls were mechanical and straightforward, designed to be accessible to the growing number of new drivers in the early 20th century.

The model was part of Buick’s broader effort to offer high-quality vehicles across a range of price points, sitting between smaller, more economical cars and the more powerful six-cylinder models. Known for their solid construction and reliability, cars like the D45 helped Buick build a strong reputation in North America and contributed to its early success under the General Motors umbrella.

Today, the Buick D45 is a rare and prized collectible among vintage car enthusiasts. It represents a period when American automakers were rapidly evolving, and when craftsmanship, mechanical innovation, and style came together in vehicles that defined the motoring experience of their time.